3 days in Swittzerland: The perfect quick trip & tips for exploring the alps

Switzerland had always been on my bucket list, and after finally visiting, I can honestly say it lived up to every expectation. From crystal-clear lakes to mountain peaks and postcard-perfect villages, every day and view felt like a real movie set.

Here’s how we spent 3 incredible days exploring some of the most beautiful spots in the Swiss Alps.

Day 1 — Interlaken & Harder Kulm

We arrived and based ourselves in Interlaken.

The train view over Lake Thun to Interlaken with the mountains in the background alone was one of the best views of the entire trip. If you’re lucky enough to get clear weather, sunset here is unreal.

I highly recommend basing yourself in Interlaken, it’s well connected to the other areas, has a great vibe to it with lovely shops, cafes and scenery. We were in awe just watching the paragliders across the beautiful green fields.

After settling in, we headed straight up to Harder Kulm just outside Interlaken station where you can get tickets from 19 CHF, and wow, what a way to start the trip.

That first evening gave us the perfect taste of what Switzerland was about peaceful, scenic, and ridiculously photogenic.

Day 2 — Lauterbrunnen: The Valley of Waterfalls

Day two was all about exploring Lauterbrunnen, and this place genuinely feels like something out of a movie.

Just 20 minutes from Interlaken by train, it’s one of the easiest day trips and absolutely worth it.

The valley is surrounded by towering cliffs, waterfalls pouring down from every direction, and endless hiking trails. Walking through the village and just taking it all in felt surreal.

This was probably one of the most peaceful places we visited, and if you love scenery, this is a must.

Day 3 — Grindelwald & Jungfraujoch

For the final day, we made our way to Grindelwald, another incredible mountain village that feels straight out of a postcard.

If you want that “wow” factor from the moment you wake up, staying here instead of Interlaken could be worth it.

From Grindelwald, we went up to Jungfraujoch, known as the “Top of Europe.” This was easily one of the most unforgettable experiences of the trip.

Standing above the clouds, surrounded by snow-covered peaks and glaciers, felt like being on another planet. It’s expensive, from starting prices 80 SF, but if the weather is clear, it’s 100% worth it.

My Tips for Visiting Switzerland to share with your clients

1. Emphasise on getting the Swiss Travel Pass/Card & Use the SBB Train app

This saves you a lot of money if you’re moving around often or staying for longer than 3 days. Transport adds up quickly, and Switzerland isn’t cheap. Also, the SBB Mobile app makes everything easier.

Buying point-to-point tickets usually means you can take flexible trains rather than being locked into a specific time, which is perfect if your plans change.

2. Stay in Interlaken (or Grindelwald)

Interlaken is the perfect base:

Around 2.5 hours from Zurich Airport then you’re close to all the areas
20 mins to Lauterbrunnen via train
30 mins to Grindelwald via train

It’s ideal for seeing multiple places without constantly changing hotels.

3. Food is expensive, budget smart. Eating out in Switzerland can be pricey,restaurant meals start from 20 CHF minimum.

A few budget-friendly tips:

Asllani’s Corner in Interlaken does some great burgers from 20 CHF that includes chips and salad!
Share meals where you can (especially Pizza/Indian food portions)
Coops are everywhere, and they have great sandwiches and salads for half the price of restaurants food 5-10 CHF.
You have to try the iconic Swiss chocolate, delicious creamy and rich, shops do small bars from 4 CHF, if you don’t fancy splurging on the 20 CHF fancy boxes.
Buy instant noodles and eat at your hotel if you’re really budgeting, just ask for bowls and a fork and you’re sorted!

4. Weather matters A LOT

If your trip is mainly sightseeing, weather can make or break it.

I’d recommend visiting late June to August for the best chance of clear skies and those iconic mountain views.

Cloudy weather can completely block mountain viewpoints, and when tickets can cost close to 100 CHF, it’s worth checking live webcams online before booking.

Final Thoughts

Whilst Switzerland is on the higher end in terms of spending, it’s one of those places where every penny feels worth it. And with the tips I shared, I certainly didn’t break the bank whilst enjoying every moment.

If you love nature, mountains, scenic train rides, and beautiful villages, this itinerary is perfect.

Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, and Jungfraujoch gave us the best mix of adventure, mountains and scenery and I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.

#switzerland #lauterbrunnen #grindewald #jungfraujoch #europe #agentdiaries